I have partnerships where I take a management fee off of topline and split profits from bottom line.

They may just lay off a little when next major assessment/revalue comes. 

Instead, shut off the water to the toilet and place a sign on the door "Art exhibit: Non-functioning bathroom."

So, a couple of years down the road, your seller gets tired of being on the loan and contacts the bank to get off of the loan. 

Since I have a long-term interest in getting into hotel investing, this feels like a natural stepping stone, but I want to approach it the right way.I feel like this is such a great opportunity, especially with it being off market.

Quote from @Dan Grove: Some combination of cash to seller, closing costs, repairs, construction, paying off arrears, assignment fees, commissions.   

There are numerous paths to wealth in this country; they can't all align with your goals.

Is it possible to sell or refinance one unit to pay the other off completely. 

The house had the utilities turned off for the 6 years, and was filled with the original 1 owner's furniture, clothes, appliances, car and ecn food in the frig (without elctric on for 6 years). 

I’m totally hands off.